5T DeFOREST BUCKNER, OREGON*

5T #44 DeForest Buckner, Oregon*

6’7” – 300 lbs. – 4.95e

Started two of thirteen games as a freshman, then eight games the following year before becoming a full-time starter as a junior. Generally lines up on the right end of Oregon’s odd front, but moves inside on rare occasions. Tall with long limbs and an athletic frame; carries his weight very well, with the frame to handle additional weight, although he looks thinner than he’s listed. Responsibilities alternate between one-and-two-gap; has the ability to generate some push with his bull rush, but looks to be at his most disruptive when allowed to penetrate into the backfield. Able to skinny though double-teams. Draws a lot of extra attention from opposing offensive lines. Pretty creative rushing who demonstrates good arm extension and active hand use to shed blocks; best move is his swim. Has active feet and looks like he could become a dangerous power rusher in the future as well. Exhibits impressive speed; motor gives him the range to chase quarterbacks to the sidelines. That said, gets too upright in pursuit and can be pinballed around when he allows his pad level to rise. Ultimately more of a pressure generator than a sack artist. Could be a threat to bat down passes, but doesn’t get his hands up consistently to contest lanes. Has made the rare zone drop. Motor stays hot in the run game; has good awareness and makes the effort to bring down ballcarriers while engaged. Anchors well against opposing offensive linemen, with a stronger lower body than anticipated. Not a particularly forceful, tone-setting tackler. Could be a little bit more disciplined with his run fits; occasionally loses containment by attempting to create pressure on the inside. Gets neutralized by opposing tight ends and fullbacks too often. Also did some work on special-teams coverage units and could factor in on kick-block units thanks to his height and length. Very athletic, versatile five-technique prospect who could become a foundational piece of an odd front for years to come, especially after spending time in a pro strength program. Superior prospect to former teammate and eventual first-round pick Arik Armstead. Definitely a more natural fit in an odd front but could draw some interest as a five-technique end on the end of a four-man line; however, doesn’t fit the physical profile of an interior lineman in either scheme, which could hurt his draft stock a bit. Nonetheless, looks like a true first-round value with both a high floor and a high ceiling.